How to fix the "Microsoft Word Can't be Opened" error on Mac

After searching through forums from 2018 and 2013 I saw something that said to open the App Store. When I did that, the MS Word button that usually says "open" said "update." I clicked the update button, and after the update completed, I was able to use Word again.

This worked for me. Thank you!

jenjen.1 wrote:

I have been using Microsoft word fine up until a few days ago and now I keep getting this message:

The application “Microsoft Word” can’t be opened.

I have tried updating the app itself and it says it's up to date and I even updated (OS 14.4.1) and restarted the laptop but nothing has changed and it still won't open. All other 'office' apps are working fine for some reason it's just word.

I would delete and reinstall Word. Open the Finder, then choose Applications from the menu on the left. Click and drag it to the Trash. If you have it pinned to the Dock, hold the Control key and hover over Options > Remove From Dock, click it, then restart.

To reinstall - Download and install or reinstall Microsoft 365 or Office 2021 or Mac - Microsoft Support

jenjen.1 wrote:

Thanks Bubba, I got it sorted…Microsoft support talked me through it!

Perfect, glad to hear it.

Hi...how did you end up fixing this? I have the same issue. Thanks